Of the many different types of awnings that are available for homes perhaps none are more popular than window awnings. This is because window awnings help homeowners lower their cooling bills by blocking out harsh sunlight. Not only that but window awnings protect rugs, furniture, and all other types of flooring from the fading that occurs as a result of ultraviolet rays entering a home. Though the preservation of furniture and flooring is often a concern for homeowners the vast majority of persons who have window awnings installed do so in order to reduce heat gain in their homes by as much as 77%. Those homeowners who have yet to have window awnings installed may wish to consider a number of things prior to purchase and installation.
The first thing homeowners will want to keep in mind is that window awnings are also fantastic for homes that reside in cool climates. While window awnings are certainly valued in high temperature climates homeowners residing in cooler cities or states can save up to 25% to 35% on their cooling costs. Even in the coolest climates direct sunlight can still enter a home and be both annoying, heating, and damaging to furniture and flooring.
Homeowners considering having window awnings installed should first think about what direction their windows are facing. Homes that have the majority of their windows facing south or west will benefit most from window awnings as they can reduce cooling costs and energy savings by as much as 77%. Keep in mind that this doesn't necessarily negate the need for window awnings over windows that face in other directions, homeowners simply won't see as much benefit when they are installed on those windows.
In addition to having window awnings over the right windows and utilizing them in all climates it is equally important to point out that flexible window awnings should also be of great importance to homeowners. Having the ability to remove awnings during the winter when direct sunlight can help keep a cold home warm is vitally important. Inflexible or permanent window awnings, while popular, can cause a homeowners heating bill to rise simply because sunlight cannot enter their home. Fortunately homeowners can select from adjustable/retractable window awnings as well as those that are easily uninstalled and reinstalled.
Trees are nature's free window awnings and while most modern window awnings increase the aesthetics of a home they are far less effective when a home is surrounded by large trees. The natural shade that comes from trees can severely reduce the effectiveness of window awnings. Homeowners with a large number of trees around their home or at least trees in the right places need to carefully think about their impending purchase. If all they want out of window awnings are eye candy than a purchase is more than warranted but if they're looking for all of the benefits that come with window awnings then they'll be spinning their wheels.
The Awning Company specializes in Corona Del Mar awnings and awnings in Orange County.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Thursday, September 26, 2013
New Construction Window Installation Vs. Replacement Window Installation
There are only two reasons why windows are put into a home. The first reason being new construction and the second being replacement or retrofitted window projects. Surprisingly many homeowners don't know the difference between the two and assume that windows sold for upgrades are the same in quality and function as those that were installed into their home and was built. It's also common for homeowners to erroneously believe that the installation process is the same. In actuality the two are very different and mutually exclusive. Contractors will almost never use new construction windows nor techniques for upgrades or replacement windows. Additionally each type of window and procedure has very specific advantages.
The way a contractor approaches installing windows into a newly built home is far different than the way they approach installing replacement windows. During new construction homes are designed to accommodate a very specific type of window and contractors have much less work to do as a result. Those going to newly built homes often have a nail fin that rests against the outside of studs or screws. A windows simply needs to be placed in its frame and then butted up to either the new homes window frame.
When dealing with replacement window projects contractors can sometimes utilize new construction windows and techniques for the job though it is often far more involving than utilizing replacement window techniques. It's much simpler to use techniques designed for windows going into a older home and thus usually more affordable for the homeowner. Finding the right size window can be difficult for both homeowners and contractors in a retrofit project and many times window frames must be made of smaller or larger to accommodate the new windows a homeowner is chosen.
Generally speaking contractors working on a replacement window project will use one of two techniques to get the job done. The first is known as "flush fin" and is generally used in homes with aluminum windows and stucco exteriors. Utilizing this method contractors will leave the original window frame as is which prevents the stucco wall of a home from being damaged. The second method is known in professional circles as "block frame". This method is commonly used by contractors dealing with homes whose exteriors are made of either brick or siding. A contractor using this method will first need to ensure that studs around window frames have not been damaged prior to installing new windows.
Understanding the difference between installing windows in a newly built home and a retrofit project can help put a homeowner's mind at ease and even help them hire a better contractor. Furthermore having insight as to how different windows are installed can help homeowners avoid contractors that might want to use one method when another is more appropriate for their home.
Legendary Doors and Windows specializes in Anaheim windows and new windows Orange County.
The way a contractor approaches installing windows into a newly built home is far different than the way they approach installing replacement windows. During new construction homes are designed to accommodate a very specific type of window and contractors have much less work to do as a result. Those going to newly built homes often have a nail fin that rests against the outside of studs or screws. A windows simply needs to be placed in its frame and then butted up to either the new homes window frame.
When dealing with replacement window projects contractors can sometimes utilize new construction windows and techniques for the job though it is often far more involving than utilizing replacement window techniques. It's much simpler to use techniques designed for windows going into a older home and thus usually more affordable for the homeowner. Finding the right size window can be difficult for both homeowners and contractors in a retrofit project and many times window frames must be made of smaller or larger to accommodate the new windows a homeowner is chosen.
Generally speaking contractors working on a replacement window project will use one of two techniques to get the job done. The first is known as "flush fin" and is generally used in homes with aluminum windows and stucco exteriors. Utilizing this method contractors will leave the original window frame as is which prevents the stucco wall of a home from being damaged. The second method is known in professional circles as "block frame". This method is commonly used by contractors dealing with homes whose exteriors are made of either brick or siding. A contractor using this method will first need to ensure that studs around window frames have not been damaged prior to installing new windows.
Understanding the difference between installing windows in a newly built home and a retrofit project can help put a homeowner's mind at ease and even help them hire a better contractor. Furthermore having insight as to how different windows are installed can help homeowners avoid contractors that might want to use one method when another is more appropriate for their home.
Legendary Doors and Windows specializes in Anaheim windows and new windows Orange County.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Different Types of Glass To Clean
Not all windows nor all glass structures are constructed from the same types of glass. Glass comes in the form of many different styles, quality, and design. Cleaning windows and other glass structures might be something laypersons attempt on their own but in actuality doing so may actually do more harm than good. This is because different types of glass require not only different cleaning tools and chemicals but different styles as well. When working with some glass a simple damp cloth or some generic window cleaner is enough to do the trick. With the vast majority of windows and glass structures however these things might actually make the glass worse by scratching it, causing smears, or by doing nothing at all wasting an individual's time.
As professional window cleaners will tell you there are essentially five types of glass that they deal with and prefer you leave to them. These types of glass are known as annealed, heat strengthened, tempered, low-E, and insulating glass units. The easiest of these five to clean is annealed glass and a large majority of windows and glass structures are built from this type of glass. This type of glass is best known as the glass shatters into large pieces when it breaks. Annealed glass can be cleaned with a variety of chemicals and generally does not scratch.
Heat strengthened glass is glass that has been heat-treated to reduce surface compression. When this type of glass breaks it generally falls into small and sharp pieces. The glass itself is intermediate in strength. What this essentially means is that cleaning heat strengthened glass requires a special knowledge of glass and one that professional window cleaners always have. Laypersons should avoid cleaning heat strengthened glass on her own as the wrong chemicals and tools can not only damage this type of glass but breaking it as well.
As its name suggests, tempered glass is one of the strongest types of glass currently manufactured. In fact many professional window cleaners think of tempered glass as being four or five times stronger than even annealed glass. Laypersons will refer to tempered glass by its more common term "safety glass". This type of glass is often found in vehicles and around commercial structures. While it is one of the sturdiest types of glass available cleaning it can be somewhat problematic. When tempered glass is made poorly or is only mediocre at best only a professional window cleaner is capable of making this type of glass shine like new.
Low-E glass is made solely to cool down homes and buildings. Homeowners and those who own commercial structures often select this type of glass when they want insulated windows that help control the interior climates of their dwellings. Because this type of glass utilizes various types of UV film careful care needs to be taken in the cleaning of windows and glass structures made of this type of glass. Again this is where professional window cleaning services become extremely invaluable. Low-E glass isn't cheap and you don't want to damage it by trying to clean it yourself.
Lastly, insulating glass units are essentially two pieces of glass separated by some sort of space in between panes. This space are are often filled with air and gas in order to be create a seal between the separate panes which is excellent for homes that want better climate control, privacy, and even security. Due to the complexity of some insulating glass units professional window cleaners should be called in on a regular basis when these windows or glass structures become dirty or caked with debris. Not only is great care and cleaning of this type of glass required but experience is also needed to ensure that they are made properly clean.
Most people, even those that own commercial structures, would say that they'd rather not spend the money on professional window cleaning services. Once they learn that there are different types of glass however and that those types of glass all require different approaches to cleaning the majority of these people change their mind. Having windows cleaned professionally is a lot less expensive than replacing windows and people would do well to remember this before they hastily decide not to hire a professional.
Stanley Window Care specializes in window cleaning services and window cleaning in Huntington Beach.
As professional window cleaners will tell you there are essentially five types of glass that they deal with and prefer you leave to them. These types of glass are known as annealed, heat strengthened, tempered, low-E, and insulating glass units. The easiest of these five to clean is annealed glass and a large majority of windows and glass structures are built from this type of glass. This type of glass is best known as the glass shatters into large pieces when it breaks. Annealed glass can be cleaned with a variety of chemicals and generally does not scratch.
Heat strengthened glass is glass that has been heat-treated to reduce surface compression. When this type of glass breaks it generally falls into small and sharp pieces. The glass itself is intermediate in strength. What this essentially means is that cleaning heat strengthened glass requires a special knowledge of glass and one that professional window cleaners always have. Laypersons should avoid cleaning heat strengthened glass on her own as the wrong chemicals and tools can not only damage this type of glass but breaking it as well.
As its name suggests, tempered glass is one of the strongest types of glass currently manufactured. In fact many professional window cleaners think of tempered glass as being four or five times stronger than even annealed glass. Laypersons will refer to tempered glass by its more common term "safety glass". This type of glass is often found in vehicles and around commercial structures. While it is one of the sturdiest types of glass available cleaning it can be somewhat problematic. When tempered glass is made poorly or is only mediocre at best only a professional window cleaner is capable of making this type of glass shine like new.
Low-E glass is made solely to cool down homes and buildings. Homeowners and those who own commercial structures often select this type of glass when they want insulated windows that help control the interior climates of their dwellings. Because this type of glass utilizes various types of UV film careful care needs to be taken in the cleaning of windows and glass structures made of this type of glass. Again this is where professional window cleaning services become extremely invaluable. Low-E glass isn't cheap and you don't want to damage it by trying to clean it yourself.
Lastly, insulating glass units are essentially two pieces of glass separated by some sort of space in between panes. This space are are often filled with air and gas in order to be create a seal between the separate panes which is excellent for homes that want better climate control, privacy, and even security. Due to the complexity of some insulating glass units professional window cleaners should be called in on a regular basis when these windows or glass structures become dirty or caked with debris. Not only is great care and cleaning of this type of glass required but experience is also needed to ensure that they are made properly clean.
Most people, even those that own commercial structures, would say that they'd rather not spend the money on professional window cleaning services. Once they learn that there are different types of glass however and that those types of glass all require different approaches to cleaning the majority of these people change their mind. Having windows cleaned professionally is a lot less expensive than replacing windows and people would do well to remember this before they hastily decide not to hire a professional.
Stanley Window Care specializes in window cleaning services and window cleaning in Huntington Beach.
Knock Knock! Who's There? A Great First Impression
The old adage that says "you only get one chance to make a first impression" is one of those things that we hear very often and sometimes wonder how much truth there is to that old saying. In actuality the first impression a person forms about you or your home can make or break a business or personal relationship and can even make people think less of both you and your abode. The way your home looks both on the interior and the exterior says a lot out you. Not only about your own personal tastes in decor and style but your standard of living as well. Any homeowner that wants or needs to make a good first impression and has the money to spend on a home improvement project may want to consider replacing their doors.
Giving your home a door makeover is a great way to make a first impression because modern doors can be custom-made and are far more elaborate and durable than ever before. With the ability to order a custom-made door for your home you can let your imagination run wild in terms of color, architecture, style, design, and even construction materials. Custom-made doors for your home give you the perfect opportunity to make the type of first impression you've always wanted to make. Perhaps best of all however modern doors can be created and installed for the purpose of creating specific moods or atmospheres.
In addition to adding new doors to your home as part of a makeover you might also want to consider door accessories. A door knocker is a fantastic addition to nearly any type of door and can make a door extremely stylish. While it's true the idea of door knockers may seem a bit dated, they often bring a bit of "je ne sais quoi" to any door which they're installed upon. Modern door knockers can be made from wood, brass, and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. In many instances you may even be able to have a door knocker custom-made for your new door.
In keeping with the discussion about door accessories for new doors, you'll also want to keep in mind that door handles can be custom ordered and can be far more luxurious and interesting than they ever were in the past. In addition to aesthetics door handles also need to be carefully selected because they play a large role in home security. Selecting door handles that not only look good but are effective at keeping people out and/or in is of even greater importance. Even in the event that you unable to afford a brand-new door for your home adding a new door handle to one or more of them can still enhance the beauty of doors and make them more secure.
When selecting new doors for home many homeowners often keep things like entertaining guests and even the holidays in the back of their minds. You may be no different and want your new door to be accommodating in both scenarios. If this is the case you needn't worry as ordering a custom-made door can allow you to have a door installed that's easy to decorate and will look good regardless of what time of year it may be.
Last but not least when you're adding new doors to your home as part of a home makeover don't forget to think about doorbells. Similar to door knockers doorbells can alert you to a visitor's presence however modern doorbells can do quite a bit more and go much further than ever before in helping you to make the kind of first impression you'd like to make. The jingle a doorbell plays when activated can be virtually anything you like. Part of one of your favorite songs or something that might invoke specific feelings can be included to really impress guests/visitors.
Legendary Doors and Windows specizlizes in Orange County doors and Costa Mesa doors.
Giving your home a door makeover is a great way to make a first impression because modern doors can be custom-made and are far more elaborate and durable than ever before. With the ability to order a custom-made door for your home you can let your imagination run wild in terms of color, architecture, style, design, and even construction materials. Custom-made doors for your home give you the perfect opportunity to make the type of first impression you've always wanted to make. Perhaps best of all however modern doors can be created and installed for the purpose of creating specific moods or atmospheres.
In addition to adding new doors to your home as part of a makeover you might also want to consider door accessories. A door knocker is a fantastic addition to nearly any type of door and can make a door extremely stylish. While it's true the idea of door knockers may seem a bit dated, they often bring a bit of "je ne sais quoi" to any door which they're installed upon. Modern door knockers can be made from wood, brass, and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. In many instances you may even be able to have a door knocker custom-made for your new door.
In keeping with the discussion about door accessories for new doors, you'll also want to keep in mind that door handles can be custom ordered and can be far more luxurious and interesting than they ever were in the past. In addition to aesthetics door handles also need to be carefully selected because they play a large role in home security. Selecting door handles that not only look good but are effective at keeping people out and/or in is of even greater importance. Even in the event that you unable to afford a brand-new door for your home adding a new door handle to one or more of them can still enhance the beauty of doors and make them more secure.
When selecting new doors for home many homeowners often keep things like entertaining guests and even the holidays in the back of their minds. You may be no different and want your new door to be accommodating in both scenarios. If this is the case you needn't worry as ordering a custom-made door can allow you to have a door installed that's easy to decorate and will look good regardless of what time of year it may be.
Last but not least when you're adding new doors to your home as part of a home makeover don't forget to think about doorbells. Similar to door knockers doorbells can alert you to a visitor's presence however modern doorbells can do quite a bit more and go much further than ever before in helping you to make the kind of first impression you'd like to make. The jingle a doorbell plays when activated can be virtually anything you like. Part of one of your favorite songs or something that might invoke specific feelings can be included to really impress guests/visitors.
Legendary Doors and Windows specizlizes in Orange County doors and Costa Mesa doors.
Make Your Patio A Useful Area And Enjoyable
Homeowners who find their patios somewhat drab and/or otherwise boring can do something about that by having a patio cover installed. Alone patios are an area in which a homeowner and sometimes their family get together for short periods of time to star gaze, consider going for a swim, or even cooking a quick meal on the grill. Things like falling rain, wind, harsh sunlight, and soaring temperatures however often keep homeowners from utilizing uncovered patios. On the other hand patios with a patio cover installed can become a place in which homeowners can entertain guests, enjoy indoor amenities outdoors, and even read a book or grab a quick nap. Once a patio is covered it quickly becomes one of the most popular areas of the home.
While some homeowners will inevitably add a table and flimsy umbrella to their patio to function as a pseudo-patio cover these people will quickly find that an umbrella is unreliable and provides two small comfortable space to enjoy a regular basis. Fortunately modern patio covers range from the very inexpensive to the very luxurious and costly though regardless of which type a homeowner selects their going to get a quality product. Additionally modern patio covers, and to a greater extent patio enclosures, are available in a wide array of different construction materials. No longer are patio covers and enclosures made solely from wood or metal. Modern patio covers are now made from wood, metal, vinyl, and a combination of materials. Homeowners also want to keep in mind that within the aforementioned categories there's also different types to choose from. There many different types of wood as well as metal and many different qualities of vinyl available too.
When it comes to the actual design of patio covers homeowners also have a number of choices to consider. In keeping with modern times and the desire to be more environmentally friendly many contractors now offer solar patio covers. These patio covers not only protect homeowners from sun and rain but provide them with a very clean and affordable source of electricity as well. Whereas wood, solar, and metal patio covers require regular maintenance and cleaning vinyl patio covers require little more than an occasional wiping down or hosing off. Vinyl patio covers are also great for those homeowners who don't want their newest investment to become a victim of rots, warping, cracking, or peeling. Of course for the homeowner concerned with beauty wood patio covers and even enclosures are still made available. It's hard to beat the look of wood covering a patio and these types of covers, even more so than any other, can raise the value of a home substantially.
With so many choices available and so many options to consider homeowners should always seek to have a consultation with some sort of patio cover professional. These persons can give homeowners a very good idea of what type of patio cover will work best for their home, their budget, and the climate their home is in. The purchase of a new patio cover isn't something that homeowners should rush into as they can be installed and enjoyed year-round.
The Patio Masters specializes in Orange County patio covers and Laguna Niguel patio covers.
While some homeowners will inevitably add a table and flimsy umbrella to their patio to function as a pseudo-patio cover these people will quickly find that an umbrella is unreliable and provides two small comfortable space to enjoy a regular basis. Fortunately modern patio covers range from the very inexpensive to the very luxurious and costly though regardless of which type a homeowner selects their going to get a quality product. Additionally modern patio covers, and to a greater extent patio enclosures, are available in a wide array of different construction materials. No longer are patio covers and enclosures made solely from wood or metal. Modern patio covers are now made from wood, metal, vinyl, and a combination of materials. Homeowners also want to keep in mind that within the aforementioned categories there's also different types to choose from. There many different types of wood as well as metal and many different qualities of vinyl available too.
When it comes to the actual design of patio covers homeowners also have a number of choices to consider. In keeping with modern times and the desire to be more environmentally friendly many contractors now offer solar patio covers. These patio covers not only protect homeowners from sun and rain but provide them with a very clean and affordable source of electricity as well. Whereas wood, solar, and metal patio covers require regular maintenance and cleaning vinyl patio covers require little more than an occasional wiping down or hosing off. Vinyl patio covers are also great for those homeowners who don't want their newest investment to become a victim of rots, warping, cracking, or peeling. Of course for the homeowner concerned with beauty wood patio covers and even enclosures are still made available. It's hard to beat the look of wood covering a patio and these types of covers, even more so than any other, can raise the value of a home substantially.
With so many choices available and so many options to consider homeowners should always seek to have a consultation with some sort of patio cover professional. These persons can give homeowners a very good idea of what type of patio cover will work best for their home, their budget, and the climate their home is in. The purchase of a new patio cover isn't something that homeowners should rush into as they can be installed and enjoyed year-round.
The Patio Masters specializes in Orange County patio covers and Laguna Niguel patio covers.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Professional Pressure Washing: Relieving The Burden
It is a heavy burden, caring for a commercial facility. The maintenance involved in keeping such a structure clean and professional looking is nothing short of daunting and some might even say arduous. Everything from keeping windows clean to keeping walls, parking lots, and walkways in good order requires the assistance of professionals. Perhaps no professional cleaning service is more valuable to owners of commercial structures that is pressure washing.
Pressure washing is extremely important to commercial structure owners because the exterior of the commercial building is often the first impression business associates and customers have upon arriving. As such business managers and even owners of commercial structures want the entire exterior of their buildings to look not only professional and clean but warm and welcoming as well. An unkempt looking business structure may give pause to visitors and cause them to wonder if a building is equally as dirty inside. Believe it or not, many people can form an overall negative opinion of a business simply by coming into contact with an unclean exterior.
Pressure washing is best left to professionals not only because they're capable of delivering far greater results than any business manager or owner could give themselves but because they utilize professional grade tools and chemicals. Armed with not just the knowledge of how to use these tools and chemicals but how to troubleshoot and resolve issues around problem buildings is extremely essential and isn't something laypersons will be capable of doing. Additionally there's the issue of safety and attempting to pressure wash a commercial structure on their own is folly for business owners and managers. Not only can misusing equipment and chemicals cause damage to a building but can result in chemical burns, extensive and expensive damages, and even city fines.
When business owners and managers hire a professional pressure washing service they can rest easy knowing that their driveways, parking lots, and exterior walls are going to look great. Furthermore many professional pressure washers also offer other cleaning services that owners of commercial structures might find valuable. Many times their additional services include window cleanings, window and door screen repair, and even rain gutter cleaning/repair services. With pressure washing professionals offering so many additional services it behooves any owners of commercial structures as well as business owners/managers to seek out a professional pressure washing service that can offer them all of the aforementioned things. Doing so will help keep their structure looking good and ready for business.
Stanley Window Care specializes in Laguna Beach pressure washing services and Orange County pressure washing.
Pressure washing is extremely important to commercial structure owners because the exterior of the commercial building is often the first impression business associates and customers have upon arriving. As such business managers and even owners of commercial structures want the entire exterior of their buildings to look not only professional and clean but warm and welcoming as well. An unkempt looking business structure may give pause to visitors and cause them to wonder if a building is equally as dirty inside. Believe it or not, many people can form an overall negative opinion of a business simply by coming into contact with an unclean exterior.
Pressure washing is best left to professionals not only because they're capable of delivering far greater results than any business manager or owner could give themselves but because they utilize professional grade tools and chemicals. Armed with not just the knowledge of how to use these tools and chemicals but how to troubleshoot and resolve issues around problem buildings is extremely essential and isn't something laypersons will be capable of doing. Additionally there's the issue of safety and attempting to pressure wash a commercial structure on their own is folly for business owners and managers. Not only can misusing equipment and chemicals cause damage to a building but can result in chemical burns, extensive and expensive damages, and even city fines.
When business owners and managers hire a professional pressure washing service they can rest easy knowing that their driveways, parking lots, and exterior walls are going to look great. Furthermore many professional pressure washers also offer other cleaning services that owners of commercial structures might find valuable. Many times their additional services include window cleanings, window and door screen repair, and even rain gutter cleaning/repair services. With pressure washing professionals offering so many additional services it behooves any owners of commercial structures as well as business owners/managers to seek out a professional pressure washing service that can offer them all of the aforementioned things. Doing so will help keep their structure looking good and ready for business.
Stanley Window Care specializes in Laguna Beach pressure washing services and Orange County pressure washing.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Outdoor Rooms: Enjoy The Indoors In Your Backyard
Moving into a new home can be quite exciting for a family. As the years roll on however and as complacency begins to set in, families while still in love with their home, often begin to find their homes boring or drab. This is especially true of those homeowners with backyards. While it's not uncommon for homeowners to hold celebrations in their backyard, do a bit of barbecuing, or even relax on some lawn furniture backyards seldom offer excitement and/or variety.
In recent years many homeowners have sought to remedy their backyard issues by having some sort of outdoor room built. Not only are outdoor rooms exciting and fun to use they can also be quite elaborate and make a backyard just as functional and practical as the inside of a home. Homeowners who have outdoor rooms built often find themselves spending a great deal more time in their backyards when compared to the time they spent indoors. Perhaps best of all outdoor rooms can be utilized year-round and can be used for not just entertaining guests but for relaxing and even preparing/enjoying a meal with the family.
Though there are many different types of outdoor rooms that landscaping contractors can both design and build perhaps none is more popular than the outdoor living room. Outdoor living rooms bring all of the comforts and amenities of indoor living out into a backyard. This includes things like large screen television sets, surround sound systems, couches, and even lighting. Furthermore homeowners who want an extremely elaborate outdoor living room can opt to have heating units and fans installed to ensure comfort year-round. There's something special about being able to enjoy a movie or the big game outdoors.
Also extremely popular with homeowners these days is the outdoor kitchen. As is the case with outdoor living rooms, outdoor kitchens can be constructed to be just as efficient, and in some cases more so, than their indoor counterparts. Outdoor kitchens can include stoves, a wide variety of ovens, refrigerators, food preparatory areas, and of course an area specifically for dining. Most homeowners enjoy barbecuing on the backyard porch but when you have an outdoor kitchen built it not only becomes something that's more enjoyable but something that homeowners and their families will look forward to every day. Design oriented homeowners will be excited to learn that outdoor kitchens don't necessarily have to look like indoor kitchens and contractors can put together a kitchen that reflects a specific theme or even another part of the world.
Rounding out the very top of the popularity list outdoor barbecue pits. While many minds might immediately drift to the BBQ pits found on a beach or a simple grill sitting on a patio, backyard barbecue pits are far more elaborate, functional, and efficient. Homeowners can not only install a number of different types of grills, smokers, and even rotisseries but they can also elect to have moody lighting installed to create an excellent atmosphere for both cooking and enjoying a barbecued meal. Furthermore homeowners who elect to have a barbecue pit constructed in the backyard also have the option of adding things like brick or wood pizza ovens and even television sets that will keep hungry guests entertained while their food cooks.
Though outdoor bedrooms are not yet as popular as the aforementioned three types more and more homeowners are looking to have one built all the time. Outdoor bedrooms are perhaps the most comfortable all outdoor rooms simply because they're designed and built for relaxation. Sure, things like television sets and lighting can be part of an outdoor bedroom but it's the actual bed and atmosphere that are the stars of this type of outdoor room. Outdoor bedrooms are often installed next to swimming pools and sometimes adjacent to a home for both convenience and atmosphere. There a lot of individuals who enjoyed camping in their backyards as children and an outdoor bedroom allows these people to find that same type of excitement and relaxation in an outdoor bedroom.
No matter what type of outdoor room a homeowner elects to have constructed they should keep in mind that while they may enjoy these rooms for years to come all types of outdoor rooms, even the simplest of them, can dramatically increase the resale value of their home. Additionally outdoor rooms not only provide families with excitement but they also allow homeowners to entertain and impress guests. From relaxation to being a great location for a celebration, outdoor rooms are something every homeowner should consider.
Millennium Construction specializes in Orange County landscaping and Huntington Beach landscaping.
In recent years many homeowners have sought to remedy their backyard issues by having some sort of outdoor room built. Not only are outdoor rooms exciting and fun to use they can also be quite elaborate and make a backyard just as functional and practical as the inside of a home. Homeowners who have outdoor rooms built often find themselves spending a great deal more time in their backyards when compared to the time they spent indoors. Perhaps best of all outdoor rooms can be utilized year-round and can be used for not just entertaining guests but for relaxing and even preparing/enjoying a meal with the family.
Though there are many different types of outdoor rooms that landscaping contractors can both design and build perhaps none is more popular than the outdoor living room. Outdoor living rooms bring all of the comforts and amenities of indoor living out into a backyard. This includes things like large screen television sets, surround sound systems, couches, and even lighting. Furthermore homeowners who want an extremely elaborate outdoor living room can opt to have heating units and fans installed to ensure comfort year-round. There's something special about being able to enjoy a movie or the big game outdoors.
Also extremely popular with homeowners these days is the outdoor kitchen. As is the case with outdoor living rooms, outdoor kitchens can be constructed to be just as efficient, and in some cases more so, than their indoor counterparts. Outdoor kitchens can include stoves, a wide variety of ovens, refrigerators, food preparatory areas, and of course an area specifically for dining. Most homeowners enjoy barbecuing on the backyard porch but when you have an outdoor kitchen built it not only becomes something that's more enjoyable but something that homeowners and their families will look forward to every day. Design oriented homeowners will be excited to learn that outdoor kitchens don't necessarily have to look like indoor kitchens and contractors can put together a kitchen that reflects a specific theme or even another part of the world.
Rounding out the very top of the popularity list outdoor barbecue pits. While many minds might immediately drift to the BBQ pits found on a beach or a simple grill sitting on a patio, backyard barbecue pits are far more elaborate, functional, and efficient. Homeowners can not only install a number of different types of grills, smokers, and even rotisseries but they can also elect to have moody lighting installed to create an excellent atmosphere for both cooking and enjoying a barbecued meal. Furthermore homeowners who elect to have a barbecue pit constructed in the backyard also have the option of adding things like brick or wood pizza ovens and even television sets that will keep hungry guests entertained while their food cooks.
Though outdoor bedrooms are not yet as popular as the aforementioned three types more and more homeowners are looking to have one built all the time. Outdoor bedrooms are perhaps the most comfortable all outdoor rooms simply because they're designed and built for relaxation. Sure, things like television sets and lighting can be part of an outdoor bedroom but it's the actual bed and atmosphere that are the stars of this type of outdoor room. Outdoor bedrooms are often installed next to swimming pools and sometimes adjacent to a home for both convenience and atmosphere. There a lot of individuals who enjoyed camping in their backyards as children and an outdoor bedroom allows these people to find that same type of excitement and relaxation in an outdoor bedroom.
No matter what type of outdoor room a homeowner elects to have constructed they should keep in mind that while they may enjoy these rooms for years to come all types of outdoor rooms, even the simplest of them, can dramatically increase the resale value of their home. Additionally outdoor rooms not only provide families with excitement but they also allow homeowners to entertain and impress guests. From relaxation to being a great location for a celebration, outdoor rooms are something every homeowner should consider.
Millennium Construction specializes in Orange County landscaping and Huntington Beach landscaping.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Solar Power Efficiency And Cleaning
With so many homeowners switching over to solar power there is a lot of excitement around the technology and the purchasing of solar power systems. In the midst of their excitement however what many homeowners often overlook is the fact that their solar panels will become dirty and their efficiency slowly but steadily reduces. When a new solar power system is first installed and activated even the most modest of systems typically converts about 20% of the sunlight it receives into usable energy. Over time however its conversion rate can drop dramatically depending on how much maintenance and care homeowners give their solar panels.
In environments where there's a lot of dust, dirt, or pollen solar panels can lose up to 30% of their efficiency in a relatively short amount of time. Add in even small amounts of wind in those types of climates and solar panels can see their efficiency drop to alarming numbers and relatively quickly as well. In addition to desert climates homeowners need to also be aware of the fact that environments with a high precipitation, be it snow or rain, can also negatively affect their solar panels. When precipitation falls and gathers on solar panels they become havens for dirt, mold, and many other types debris that might try and pass by the panels. On solar panels water acts like a low-grade epoxy resin and helps debris of all types stick to their surface.
Fortunately homeowners needn't worry much about the effectiveness of their solar panels as they can be cleaned. Though they can be cleaned homeowners do need to take great care in doing so. The process can also be time-consuming for those homeowners who choose to do it themselves. Homeowners need to take great care when they set out to clean their solar panels because the wrong chemicals/detergents can damage some solar panels and even render them inert. Ideally homeowners should clean or have their solar panels cleaned every few weeks to maintain peak efficiency though those homeowners with larger solar panel arrays may find that to be inconvenient.
Homeowners concerned with hiring a professional to clean their solar panels and those with little time to do it themselves can actually breathe a sigh of relief. There is a self-cleaning material for solar panels that can be applied by professionals during installation and periodically throughout the life of a solar power system that reduces the number of times panels must be cleaned. This robust coating is designed to maintain peak efficiency over long periods of time. The technology behind this coating is quite complex but homeowners can think of it as being similar to the no fog technology found on corrective lenses and other types of glass. Unlike some of the spray-on coatings available for solar panels this type of coating actually bonds to individual solar panels and forums a barrier between debris and the panel it protects. This usually allows debris and even precipitation to fall roll off solar panels.
For those homeowners who do want to clean their own solar panels themselves, it behooves them to at the very least have a consultation with a solar power professional. It may be the individual or company that installed their system or maybe somebody else but either way these people can help homeowners determine exactly what type of chemicals/detergents and tools to use. While the degradation of solar panel efficiency might be a nuisance to homeowners the cost of replacing damaged solar panels is much more than a simple nuisance.
SolarGEM specializes in Orange County solar power and solar panel services.
In environments where there's a lot of dust, dirt, or pollen solar panels can lose up to 30% of their efficiency in a relatively short amount of time. Add in even small amounts of wind in those types of climates and solar panels can see their efficiency drop to alarming numbers and relatively quickly as well. In addition to desert climates homeowners need to also be aware of the fact that environments with a high precipitation, be it snow or rain, can also negatively affect their solar panels. When precipitation falls and gathers on solar panels they become havens for dirt, mold, and many other types debris that might try and pass by the panels. On solar panels water acts like a low-grade epoxy resin and helps debris of all types stick to their surface.
Fortunately homeowners needn't worry much about the effectiveness of their solar panels as they can be cleaned. Though they can be cleaned homeowners do need to take great care in doing so. The process can also be time-consuming for those homeowners who choose to do it themselves. Homeowners need to take great care when they set out to clean their solar panels because the wrong chemicals/detergents can damage some solar panels and even render them inert. Ideally homeowners should clean or have their solar panels cleaned every few weeks to maintain peak efficiency though those homeowners with larger solar panel arrays may find that to be inconvenient.
Homeowners concerned with hiring a professional to clean their solar panels and those with little time to do it themselves can actually breathe a sigh of relief. There is a self-cleaning material for solar panels that can be applied by professionals during installation and periodically throughout the life of a solar power system that reduces the number of times panels must be cleaned. This robust coating is designed to maintain peak efficiency over long periods of time. The technology behind this coating is quite complex but homeowners can think of it as being similar to the no fog technology found on corrective lenses and other types of glass. Unlike some of the spray-on coatings available for solar panels this type of coating actually bonds to individual solar panels and forums a barrier between debris and the panel it protects. This usually allows debris and even precipitation to fall roll off solar panels.
For those homeowners who do want to clean their own solar panels themselves, it behooves them to at the very least have a consultation with a solar power professional. It may be the individual or company that installed their system or maybe somebody else but either way these people can help homeowners determine exactly what type of chemicals/detergents and tools to use. While the degradation of solar panel efficiency might be a nuisance to homeowners the cost of replacing damaged solar panels is much more than a simple nuisance.
SolarGEM specializes in Orange County solar power and solar panel services.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Ground Fault Interrupters: Protecting Homes And Families
As young children we're taught that electrical devices should be kept far away from any type of water. The water that comes from a bathtub, rain, or even water running from the sink all pose a serious risk to the health and sometimes the lives of individuals; or at least they used to. These days modern technology and electricians can apply a technology that makes using electrical devices near water much safer. This technology is known as a ground fault interrupter in professional circles but is better known as GFI outlets by the vast majority of homeowners.
Interestingly enough however many homeowners continue to erroneously believe that dropping a hair dryer into a single bathtub can cause harm as can using power tools in the rain. While it's certainly not recommended that any homeowner allow these things to happen or to test the technology, homeowners are now protected by GFI outlets. These specialized outlets essentially prohibit electrical current from escaping into water and from their devices of origin.
Though many homeowners don't even know that their homes are equipped with GFI outlets, they are fairly easy to spot. Many times homeowners will notice something different about a particular outlet and ask themselves "what is this thing?". Homeowners can find GFI outlets all over their home too. They're often installed in bathrooms, close to kitchen sinks, and in basements and garages as well. It's also not uncommon to find this protective technology installed outdoors near swimming pools and/or hot tubs. Homeowners can identify these types of outlets by their two color-coded buttons that sit in between the two plugs in an outlet.
Homeowners unsure of whether or not they actually have GFI outlets in their home can breathe a sigh of relief because these type of outlets are required by law meaning most homes, even those that were built decades ago, have been brought up to code and feature several of these outlets throughout their structure. GFI outlets are required by law simply because they severely reduce the number of accidental injuries and deaths via electricity.
Once homeowners find out they have ground fault interrupters is in their home they often begin to wonder how it all works. GFI outlets basically detect and monitor any and all changes in an outlet. Anytime an appliance plugs into one of these outlets the technology behind them allows them to determine how much current is flowing into the appliance and back into the outlet. GFI plugs also monitor the rate of exchange between the two and when there is even the slightest increase or decrease the outlet shuts down immediately. The shutting down of these outlets keeps people safe in the event a major appliance and the person using it encounters water or some type of surge.
Homeowners who find that they have too few or no GFI outlets in their home at all needn't worry. These type of outlets are available at virtually every type of hardware and home improvement store out there. They're also extremely affordable though when it comes to installation homeowners are strongly advised to contact a professional electrician. It only takes a split second to be injured or killed by electricity so it behooves interested homeowners to seek out the assistance of a professional. Additionally having a professional come out to install GFI outlets in a home can also help homeowners become aware of any electrical risks or repairs.
SA-Electric specializes in Orange electrician and electrical services.
Interestingly enough however many homeowners continue to erroneously believe that dropping a hair dryer into a single bathtub can cause harm as can using power tools in the rain. While it's certainly not recommended that any homeowner allow these things to happen or to test the technology, homeowners are now protected by GFI outlets. These specialized outlets essentially prohibit electrical current from escaping into water and from their devices of origin.
Though many homeowners don't even know that their homes are equipped with GFI outlets, they are fairly easy to spot. Many times homeowners will notice something different about a particular outlet and ask themselves "what is this thing?". Homeowners can find GFI outlets all over their home too. They're often installed in bathrooms, close to kitchen sinks, and in basements and garages as well. It's also not uncommon to find this protective technology installed outdoors near swimming pools and/or hot tubs. Homeowners can identify these types of outlets by their two color-coded buttons that sit in between the two plugs in an outlet.
Homeowners unsure of whether or not they actually have GFI outlets in their home can breathe a sigh of relief because these type of outlets are required by law meaning most homes, even those that were built decades ago, have been brought up to code and feature several of these outlets throughout their structure. GFI outlets are required by law simply because they severely reduce the number of accidental injuries and deaths via electricity.
Once homeowners find out they have ground fault interrupters is in their home they often begin to wonder how it all works. GFI outlets basically detect and monitor any and all changes in an outlet. Anytime an appliance plugs into one of these outlets the technology behind them allows them to determine how much current is flowing into the appliance and back into the outlet. GFI plugs also monitor the rate of exchange between the two and when there is even the slightest increase or decrease the outlet shuts down immediately. The shutting down of these outlets keeps people safe in the event a major appliance and the person using it encounters water or some type of surge.
Homeowners who find that they have too few or no GFI outlets in their home at all needn't worry. These type of outlets are available at virtually every type of hardware and home improvement store out there. They're also extremely affordable though when it comes to installation homeowners are strongly advised to contact a professional electrician. It only takes a split second to be injured or killed by electricity so it behooves interested homeowners to seek out the assistance of a professional. Additionally having a professional come out to install GFI outlets in a home can also help homeowners become aware of any electrical risks or repairs.
SA-Electric specializes in Orange electrician and electrical services.
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